SPORTS fans have the chance to win racing gear worn by Lostock Gralam Paralympian Pete Mitchell at the Rio games.

Pete and fellow cyclist Neil Fachie won silver in the 1k tandem time trial at the 2016 Paralympics, and Pete took part in a homecoming parade in Northwich with Olympic gold medallist Matt Langridge.

Pete, 26, has offered to go into schools to show his medal and talk about his Paralympic experiences, and is the star attraction at a Christmas fair at St John’s Church hall in Lostock Gralam.

The fair is on Saturday, November 12, and will include a raffle of clothing worn by Pete at Rio - a cycling jersey and mitts and a skull cap which is worn under a helmet.

Money raised from the raffle and signed photos of Pete will go to church funds, and to boost the fundraising people will have the chance to have their picture taken with Pete, and to wear his medal.

The idea of inviting Pete to the fair came from Brian Appleton, whose family has a long association with the church, and who, with his brothers’ help, raised more £1,000 recently for St John’s through a cycling and walking event and a concert.

The musical evening featured Father Francis, and was held in memory of Brian’s mum May, who died in June at the age of 87.

“I know how important St John’s is to the community, and if I can do anything to help raise funds for the church I’m more than happy to do so,” said Pete, who lives near the church.

Brian Appleton is keen to see as many people come along to the Christmas fair for what he described as a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ chance to meet a medal-winning Paralympian.

“Pete deserves recognition for what he has achieved, and was very keen to get involved in the fair,” said Brian, who is helping to organise the event.

“His appearance will be the highlight of the event, and it will be a chance for children to meet Pete, wear his medal and have their picture taken with him.”